Endogenous Perceptions of the Use of Parkia Biglobosa Pods in Weed Control in the South Sudanian Zone of Burkina Faso

Introduction: Alternative biological weed control methods in Burkina Faso are poorly understood and documented. Although some traditional control methods using plant organs exist, their adoption by populations remains very limited due to various challenges. This study aimed at identifying the use patterns of Parkia biglobosa pods, the populations’ perceptions on the benefits resulting from use of Parkia biglobosa ‘s pods in weed control, the constraints and external factors that may limit the adoption of plant organs in weed control. Materials and Methods: An ethno-botanical survey was conducted in Burkina Faso in three provinces (Comoé, Léraba, and Kénédougou) located in the South Sudanian zone, using semi-structured interview methods. On the basis of voluntary membership, 262 people were interviewed Results: The results revealed that the main modes of Parkia biglobosa ‘s pods use are the burial of whole pods by plowing (FC = 45.8%), followed by spreading (FC = 20.3%) of pods in places more infested by weeds. The most mentioned advantages related to the use of Parkia biglobosa’s pods are its contribution in the fight against environmental pollution (FC = 63.0%), the improvement of agricultural yields (FC = 52.8%) and the improvement of soil structure (FC= 25.0%). The unavailability of Parkia biglobosa’s pods (FC = 51.7%) and the lack of suited equipment (FC = 47.6%) are reported to be the main constraints hindering the use of Parkia biglobosa’s pods by populations in weed control. Conclusion: The benefits of Parkia biglobosa pods include reduced environmental pollution, improved crop yields, and improved soil structure. The scarcity of plant organs and lack of agricultural equipment are hampering the adoption of Parkia biglobosa pods for weed control. These findings could help better guide policymakers and projects aimed at promoting weed control methods.